Shintoism is full of symbolism. Nature is revered and respected. The most famous Shinto Symbol is the Torii Gate. The Torii Gate is the passage from this world into the world of the Gods. Shrines are erected to honour the Kami if believed to reside in it. In Shinto alters called Kami-Dana Goldshelf are found within homes. The largest shrines re supported and maintained by entire communities. The shrine of Ise is the main shrine of Amaterasu, Goddess of the Sun. The national shrines have huge significance to the Japanese.
In conjunction with the practice of offerings and maintenance of shrines are the expectations of moral conduct. Shinto moral principles are strongly influenced by Confucianism. It is believed that humans have an innate moral sense, and can be motivated by shame to avoid doing wrong. Acts of wrong-doing are cleansed through acts of purification.
Sincerity, which is the harmony of thought and action, is a very important human characteristic. The Shinto vision for society is the idea of harmony - harmony between humans and Kami, harmony within social groups, and harmony between humans and nature.
In Shinto there are 4 Affirmations to be followed:
Tradition & Family = celebrations of life cycles
Love & Nature = connect with nature is connecting to the Gods
Physical Cleanliness = Purity
Matsuri = Worship, celebration and honour of the Kami
In conjunction with the practice of offerings and maintenance of shrines are the expectations of moral conduct. Shinto moral principles are strongly influenced by Confucianism. It is believed that humans have an innate moral sense, and can be motivated by shame to avoid doing wrong. Acts of wrong-doing are cleansed through acts of purification.
Sincerity, which is the harmony of thought and action, is a very important human characteristic. The Shinto vision for society is the idea of harmony - harmony between humans and Kami, harmony within social groups, and harmony between humans and nature.
In Shinto there are 4 Affirmations to be followed:
Tradition & Family = celebrations of life cycles
Love & Nature = connect with nature is connecting to the Gods
Physical Cleanliness = Purity
Matsuri = Worship, celebration and honour of the Kami